At first glance the 1,800-foot east face of Mt. Whitney appears much too difficult for a 5.7 route. Luckily, looks are deceiving and the face has just enough weaknesses that are connected in just the right ways to make the climbing mostly moderate and incredibly fun. The exposure and commitment on this climb are intense making the route only suitable for experienced 5.7 leaders.

The East Face is included in Steve Roper and Allen Steck’s “50 Classic Climbs of North America,” giving the route additional appeal and popularity. Most climbers are usually torn between whether to climb the East Face or East Buttress, as both are classic routes. The East Buttress is more sustained and a more direct line but the East Face has more variety and a richer history. Both routes are about the same difficulty.